This elegant pair of English ceramic plates was produced by Minton, one of Britain’s most celebrated manufacturers of fine ceramics. They feature the renowned Chinese Dragon & Bird pattern, originally registered by Minton in 1853, combining bold oriental-inspired dragons with stylized birds and floral decoration.
The design is executed using an underglaze transfer print, beautifully enhanced with hand-painted green and iron-red enamel details and finished with an elegant gilded rim. The vivid cobalt blue decoration, refined proportions and exceptional craftsmanship make these plates an excellent example of late Victorian decorative ceramics.
The impressed and printed factory marks confirm the famous Chinese Dragon & Bird pattern first registered in 1853, while the form and production characteristics indicate manufacture around 1890–1910.
The pair remains in outstanding antique condition with only minimal signs of age and use. The glaze retains an excellent shine, the hand-painted enamels remain vibrant, and the gilding is remarkably well preserved, suggesting very limited use over its lifetime.
Perfect for collectors of Minton, English ceramics, Victorian decorative arts or Asian-inspired European design.
Details
Maker: Minton & Co., England
Pattern: Chinese Dragon & Bird
Period:
Pattern registered in 1853.
Produced circa 1890–1910.
Dimensions (each):
Diameter: 26.5 cm (10.43 in.)
Height: 3.5 cm (1.38 in.)
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Condition
Excellent antique condition. Both plates show minimal signs of use, with only very light age-related wear. The glaze remains bright, the decoration is crisp, and the gilding is well preserved. No chips, cracks or restorations observed. The photographs form an integral part of the description.
A well-placed antique does more than decorate a room - it gives it authorship. Against a contemporary interior, older objects introduce texture, balance and a sense of permanence that cannot be replicated by newly made pieces alone.
This is the principle behind the LÜRON selection. We look for works that carry historical character with ease, and that feel as convincing in a Paris apartment as they do in a more modern architectural setting.
